The imam for Stockholm’s mosque says that Jimmie Åkesson’s (SD) statements about mosques risk creating contradictions in society.
– It can be interpreted as incitement and incitement to violence against mosques. To talk about the mosque in that way, in terms of demolishing and banning, is very serious. It is against basic principles of human rights and freedom of religion, says Mahmoud Khalfi, imam.
Mahmoud Khalfi, who is a mosque director and imam, says that Jimmie Åkesson is looking after the interests of the party, but not the country, with his statements.
– Unfortunately, it is populist rhetoric. I think that sometimes the interests of the party are prioritized over the interests of the country and society. It leads to contradictions and problems in society, to a feeling of insecurity, even hopelessness, to live in Sweden. It is dangerous, destructive even.
“Already heavily exposed”
Mahmoud Khalfi says the mosques are already under threat.
– The mosques are already seriously vulnerable and then to incite against mosques even more, that is unacceptable.
In his speech at the Congress of the Sweden Democrats, Åkesson said that “we need to start confiscating and demolishing mosque buildings where anti-democratic, anti-Swedish, homophobic or anti-Semitic propaganda is spread”.
Mahmoud Khalfi says they already have trainings and sermons to prevent extremism within their community.
– We and other actors in society must work hard and vigorously against extremism, regardless of whether it is among us Muslims or whether it is political extremism.
“Disappointed”
He says that the statements from Åkesson led to concern among Muslims, and disappointment.
– Everyone is disappointed that Sweden ends up in this situation. Sweden, which is known for human rights, tolerance and religious freedom. You don’t recognize this nice and tolerant Sweden, says Khalfi.